It’s our usual midweek jaunt and this time we’re visiting Exeter and East Devon CAMRA neighbours. With pass-outs from Sunshine Beer and Cider festival set-up ….or some just AWOL, we’ve taken to the trains on one of the days when the rail union members are doing their jobs.
First up is Topsham and The Bridge where we’re joined by 2 intrepid cyclists from Exmouth. 7 ales straight from the cask were enjoyed as we lounged by the river soaking up the sun’s rays.
At the GWRSA The pub dog Onto buses and into the GWRSA Railway Club. CAMRA members are always welcome and we enjoyed the extensive beer choice on the bar: Exmoor Gold, Exmoor Beast, Greene King St Edmund Golden Ale, Exeter County Best and Abbot Ale.
The Powder Monkey (Wetherspoons) was next stop on the trip and the group enjoyed the likes of Tod’s Blonde, Titanic Plum Porter and Lancaster Black.
Bypassing the closed Grapevine (middle of summer?), home to Crossed Anchor Brewery and on to The First and Last, and the Checkstone Brewery, the one-barrel micro located at the back of this freehold pub. On the bar were Otter Ale, Jail, Teignworthy Neap Tide and Checkstone beers. Catching up with future plans with the brewer, we noticed the pub dog had his own way to ensure we stayed for another!
We then ‘took over’ the Good Beer Guide listed Bicton Inn, joining those who had opted to avoid the earlier trek, to choose from the 8 ales on the bar.
The Merchants offered 6 varied handpumps for us to enjoy, while benefitting from our CAMRA member’s discount.
And so, after a great day, back to the station for the return trip to South Devon.
Thanks to Social Secretary Lawrence for an interesting excursion with some great pubs and clubs.

Words & photos by Andrew Thomson